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swift setwing

swift setwing (Dythemis velox)
Illinois Status: rare, native
Photo © Paul Dacko

Features and Behaviors

FEATURES
The swift setwing is the only species of this genus of dragonfly in Illinois. It is about two inches long and is easily recognized when perched by its black tipped wings that are held forward towards the face. The thorax has a complex black pattern on top of a bluish cream color. The abdomen is yellow at its base and is mostly black with small yellow spots along the back. The dark wing tips and abdominal color distinguish it from a blue dasher (Pachydiplax longipennis).

BEHAVIORS
The swift setwing is found in Illinois along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Males spend most of their time perched on shrubs near the water and are sometimes seen patrolling and defending a territory. Females are usually a bit more conspicuous, and when they are not hunting, hide in trees nearby. Flight period in Illinois is unknown but can likely be seen later in the summer and early fall.

Illinois Range

Taxonomy

​Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Family: Libellulidae

Habitats

Aquatic Habitats
lakes, ponds and reservoirs; rivers and streams

Prairie and Edge Habitats
edge